Designers Lilly Bunn Weekes and Nate Berkus take a stand in favor of these old-school accessories, which prove surprisingly versatile even today

The Experts

The Experts

The folding screen's glamour tends to overshadow its practicality. Coco Chanel famously decked the walls of her Paris apartment with antique Coromandel screens, and many designers of her day—including Eileen Gray and Jean Dunand—created exquisite examples of their own.

But for centuries, the screen played an important dual role: "to conceal, and to trap heat," explains designer Nate Berkus. Today's homes may be less drafty, but the piece still has many applications. "A screen adds instant architecture to a space," says Berkus, who often places one behind a bed or sofa for a layered look. "A good interior should feel as though it has been assembled over time."

Decorator Lilly Bunn Weekes points to classic uses—partitioning a room or filling a dark corner—as well as more unusual ones, such as using a screen as a backdrop for artwork. "It's so versatile," she says. "A screen can be your headboard one day, and then sit beside an armchair the next."

ABOUT THE EXPERTS

NATE BERKUS

Known for his polished interiors, the New York–based designer also creates products for Target and is working on a new television project. His latest book, The Things That Matter,was published in 2012. nateberkus.com

LILLY BUNN WEEKES

After honing her eye at McMillen, Bunn Weekes laun ched her practice three years ago. Current projects inc lude a chic, family-friendly house in Water Mill, New York. lillybunn.com

1 / DYNASTY SCREEN BY BERNHARDT FURNITURE

1 / DYNASTY SCREEN BY BERNHARDT FURNITURE

This lacquered screen, inspired by a door in London, reminds Berkus of beautifully detailed architectural artifacts. "I love using pieces like this that have heft and character and age to them," he says. He envisions it by a fireplace, alongside a club chair and floor lamp. To Bunn Weekes, the glossy finish calls for a high-style interior. "This is masculine and glamorous at the same time," she explains. 83" h. x 72" w. x 2" d.; $1,565; bernhardt.com